Update from Society CEO Yolanda Saiz, June 2026. 

The first half of 2026 has continued at a strong pace across the Society, with important developments in advocacy, fundraising, service delivery and community engagement. As cost of living pressures continue to affect many people across New South Wales, the commitment shown by members in responding to local need has been inspiring.

A major focus for us this quarter has been the launch of the 2026 Vinnies CEO Sleepout and Winter Appeal campaigns. This year’s CEO Sleepout, taking place on 18 June, will once again bring together business and community leaders to raise funds for our crisis accommodation, homelessness outreach, domestic and family violence services, healthcare support and the Vinnies Vans. Together, these services help support the more than 35,000 people experiencing homelessness in NSW.

Key Achievements to June 2026

In May we launched the 2026 Vinnies Winter Appeal, encouraging all Australians to support people facing hardship during the colder months. With increasing housing stress, energy costs and financial insecurity affecting many households, the Appeal highlights the importance of practical local support delivered through Conferences and services.

Key partnerships have also strengthened our capacity to respond to growing community need. The PAYCE Foundation generously committed $250,000 in support of our Vinnies Vans, helping expand outreach services that provide meals, material assistance and connection for people experiencing homelessness, loneliness and disadvantage.

We also saw strong support through the Hotels Have Hearts and Heroes in Action fundraising events, which raised $1.1 million and $350,000 respectively for the Society. These fundraisers reflect the continued generosity of government, community and corporate partners who share our mission of giving a hand up to people in need.

March saw the commencement of the Wagga Wagga Vinnies Van service, expanding the Society’s outreach presence into another regional community. The service will provide practical support and social connection for vulnerable people, while strengthening relationships with local services and volunteers.

Advocacy continues to be a central focus. In April, I represented the Society in the Raise the Age campaign, reinforcing our position on raising the minimum age of criminal responsibility, and promoting more compassionate, evidence-based responses for vulnerable young people and families.

In May, the Society also proudly celebrated an incredible achievement by members of the Ozanam Learning Centre community, through the “Our Woolloomooloo” ceramics exhibition, which was held at the Art Gallery of New South Wales. The exhibition showcased works created through our Inclusion programs and highlighted the important role of creativity and connection in community wellbeing.

At a governance level, the Board and Trustees approved the commencement of capital works to redevelop the Nagle Centre in Campbelltown. The redevelopment will support the operation of a place-based service model and is expected to significantly expand our capacity in an area experiencing extremely high levels of disadvantage and demand for support.

Finally, the ELT and the Business Continuity Team continue to assess the potential impacts of the evolving conflict in the Middle East. We have assessed a range of operational and financial risks to the Society, including increased fuel and goods costs, heightened demand for assistance, impacts on textile recycling exports and broader investment implications. Planning for actions to help the Society navigate these pressures are already underway.

Across all areas of the Society, these developments reflect the strength of our Vincentian mission in action. We move forward together, supporting those in need, advocating for systemic change, and continuing to build compassionate and resilient communities throughout NSW.